Veteran Coach Marty Schaetzle Takes Helm at Yuma Catholic

Yuma Catholic High School named Marty Schaetzle as its head football coach on December 11, 2025. Schaetzle arrives with more than 40 years of coaching experience, including a 19 season tenure as head coach at Mercyhurst University where he compiled 97 wins. He has also held roles at multiple college programs and moved to Yuma with his wife three years ago. Since relocating they have been part of the community, and Schaetzle has already been assisting the Shamrocks as a line coach.

The hire represents both continuity and an infusion of veteran leadership for the Shamrocks program. Administrators emphasized program development and leadership expectations, and Schaetzle steps into a role that will require not only coaching on the field, but also mentoring student athletes and coordinating with school staff and families. His long collegiate background brings experience in program building, recruiting and athlete development which can translate into expanded opportunities for players seeking college pathways.

For families and the broader Yuma community the change could have concrete impacts. Stable coaching leadership tends to support consistent training, improved injury prevention and better coordination with athletic trainers and school health services. Those elements matter for youth safety and long term athlete wellbeing. A coach with deep experience can also help shape culture around sportsmanship, academic performance and mental health supports for players balancing school and athletics.

The move also raises questions about equity and access. High quality coaching often correlates with greater exposure and resources for student athletes, so sustained commitment from the school to facilities, medical coverage and travel support will influence which players reap the potential benefits. Community partnerships, booster club involvement and district budgeting decisions will all play a role in how the program develops under new leadership.

Schaetzle will lead the Shamrocks into the coming seasons with an eye toward strengthening the program on and off the field. For parents and students, his arrival signals an experienced hand guiding young athletes. For the wider community, the hire offers an opportunity to invest in youth health, safety and pathways to higher education through sports.